The life of a knight, 1171-1252, from Philippe Auguste to Saint-Louis

The medieval knight has a distinctive silhouette, despite the numerous legends which blur historical reality. At the turning point between the 12th and 13th centuries, while the feudal order was slowly disappearing in favour of the overwhelming royal will, some men stood apart from their contemporaries by their ability to fight on horses. They held the power and were considered little by little as the ruling class; they were the lords of the land.
Thibaut des Puys de Morsaing, a young and poor bachelor, is about to achieve great success and become a rich land owner. Following his father’s steps, who died during the Crusades, and his godfather’s, Tristan de Maumesnil, he grasps the opportunities offered to him. The many events in the life of this imaginary character are used as a pretext to stage France’s medieval society, from king Philippe Auguste to Saint Louis.

«The Time Spy» series
The idea of following a character as if he was spied on by a photo-reporter, gives an incredible opportunity of getting closer to our ancestors’ daily life. This journey let us discover his social sphere and that of his contemporaries.
In every reconstructed scene, we did our best to respect the perception we have of historical reality, as it is currently presented by researchers. Nevertheless, reconstructions require more interpretation for such an ancient period, even if they are built upon the most comprehensive documentation, be it archaeological, textual or pictorial.

Size 230 x 310 mm
128 pages
more than 160 pictures